Member Article

Search begins for Young Rural Entrepreneur

The search for the UK’s Young Rural Entrepreneur of 2007 was launched yesterday, with the intent of showcasing the younger people helping to boost the country’s rural economies. A cash prize of £10,000 will be awarded to the winning entrant. Countryside insurance broker Lycetts will work in partnership with The Field magazine, focusing on businesses with a rural theme and on the individuals behind them who demonstrate entrepreneurial spirit coupled with a commitment to sustaining the rural economy.

Last year’s Young Champion of the Countryside award had a similar theme, with entrants ranging from soup making to computer software design. This year’s award is intended to be a reflection of how businesses interact with and benefit rural economies and communities.

Angus Keate, chief executive of Lycetts, explains “This year’s award is much more commercially focused to reflect just how much the countryside has changed and how so many farms and landowners have diversified into more commercially orientated activities.”

Jonathan Young, Editor of The Field, added: “Today’s countryside is flourishing once again thanks to the diversity of rural employment and we wanted to reflect and encourage this trend, especially among young rural entrepreneurs.”

The competition is open for three months with entries welcomed before the closing date of 12 August. A panel of judges will announce the winner at a reception in London on 18 October. Nominations can be submitted by or on behalf of an individual who meets the awards criteria. For further information visit www.thefield.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .